Here are five tips for any couple in a long distance relationship, to help you keep your relationship strong and intimate until you can reunite permanently:

1)    Communicate on a regular basis

It is so important to stay connected to your partner and to communicate on a regular basis. In addition to talking about the serious and important things, it’s okay to just talk about the regular day to day things going on in your life. You can even mix things up and change the way you normally communicate by using email, instant messaging, video chat or writing a letter.

2)    Do things together despite the distance

Find creative ways to participate in shared activities.  For example, watch a TV show or movie at the same time and then talk about it afterward or even during the show.  Play an online game together or read a book at the same time.

3)    Resolve conflicts as they come up

Remember it’s normal to disagree about things.  But suppressing, ignoring or bottling-up your feelings is not healthy. Resolve conflicts as they come up. It may help you to even talk to your partner over video chat rather than phone or email so that you can see each other and feel more connected.

4)    Avoid jealousy

One of the easiest ways to poison a healthy relationship is with unnecessary jealousy, drama and being controlling.  Be realistic from the start and recognize that your partner also has a social life outside the relationship.  Avoid acting suspicious or asking too many questions every time they socialize without you.  Try not to become so insecure that you resort to stalking them on the internet, trying to follow their every move on Facebook or Twitter.

5)    Visit as often as practical

Visit as often as you can afford financially and time-wise but don’t spend a lot of time worrying about the frequency of visits.  And remember, if a visit doesn’t go so well it doesn’t mean the relationship is in trouble.  All couples have their ups and downs. Sometimes you will argue during that precious time that you are together–but try not to!

Remember if you and your partner are happy in your individual lives, you are more likely to have a healthy relationship.

Read more posts in: Dating, Dr. Michelle, Long-distance relationship, Relationships